so the question is, why won't he work with us? and, the answer, quite simply, is because he wants higher taxes. >> chris: now, i know you talk about a balanced approach but clearly the republicans will not agree to that. not saying who is right or wrong, but, senator, republicans are talking about passing something this week that would give agencies, give departments, more flexibility. to set priorities so cuts could be made according to what makes sense and what doesn't instead of across-the-board. you have supported the idea but the white house opposes transfer authority. what sense does that make? >> here's really what is going on. you have as usual in washington, a large kabuki going on, boabou who can be blamed. there is no question the cuts will be painful and they are thoughtless and tom coburn and i agree on that and we agree we need more spending cutting, we have to cut more spending. we agree on that. why is it we cannot come to the table and agree what cuts need to happen? that is what we should be doing. we shouldn't b